The Zuni Man-woman [FAST]

: In Zuni belief, gender is seen as socially acquired rather than strictly biological. A child's inclination toward certain tasks or behaviors around age three or four typically signaled their path as a lhamana . Literature and Resources

This topic is extensively documented in by Will Roscoe, which focuses on the life of We'wha (1849–1896) to illustrate this alternative gender role. The book is available through various retailers: The Zuni Man-Woman: Roscoe, Will - Amazon.com The Zuni man-woman

: Far from being marginalized, lhamana often held honored positions in the community. Their unique status allowed them to serve as mediators, spiritual leaders, and keepers of cultural knowledge. : In Zuni belief, gender is seen as

: Lhamana were typically male-bodied individuals who adopted the dress, social behaviors, and labors of women while maintaining certain male ceremonial responsibilities. The book is available through various retailers: The

The primary feature of the , known traditionally as the lhamana , is the specialized integration of both male and female social, economic, and ceremonial roles into a recognized third gender status within Zuni culture. Defining Features of the Lhamana